Yet Another Cycling Forum

Off Topic => The Pub => Topic started by: Basil on 08 May, 2018, 10:31:27 pm

Title: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 08 May, 2018, 10:31:27 pm
Not sure if we need this thread.   We'll see how it goes.
Anyway,  all I wanted to say was; blimey, have you seen Jupiter tonight?   
Yo big boy.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 08 May, 2018, 11:12:27 pm
Yes, indeed. Shame my telescope is in a different country.  >:(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 09 May, 2018, 12:59:17 am
David will be out imaging intermittently.
His friend Martin Lewis has Tweeted this from last Saturday.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dcs-zHyX4AIGndD.jpg:large)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 09 May, 2018, 07:24:42 am
Wow!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 09 May, 2018, 07:28:00 am
Good going with a Dob. Has he got a drive on it?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 09 May, 2018, 04:15:17 pm
David tells me Martin has made a drive for it.

I think Martin is @sky_inspector on Twitter.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 09 May, 2018, 11:17:21 pm
Did I read that right? 444mm Dobsonian? That is nigh on 17 1/2 inches in old money. A weighty beast :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 09 May, 2018, 11:46:17 pm
Did I read that right? 444mm Dobsonian? That is nigh on 17 1/2 inches in old money. A weighty beast :thumbsup:

That is correct. He calls it 18 inches...

Martin is rather bright...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 10 May, 2018, 07:29:46 am
I got into the ATM schtick around Y2K and built a 12". Thought about motorising it with scrounged stepping motors from old printers, but the gearing defeated me.

Once saw in a mag a twin 17" Cassegrain someone had built because he had dodgy eyes. That would be wonderful to have. Along with the crane & pickup to take it to a dark-sky site.

My Dob hasn't been used for years due to light pollution. It's just an ornament these days.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 10 May, 2018, 10:50:12 am
David will be building a 500mm Cassegrain at some point.
He's had the mirrors a while and bought a suitable tube. The observatory extension and cell are awaited, as is the  re-aluminising of the optics.

David has managed some good images from light-polluted Edgware but the new LED street light might defeat him.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Torslanda on 10 May, 2018, 12:18:59 pm
Slightly OT, we're still trying to find a home for my Dad's 6" Gregorian reflector. Admittedly it's more of a display piece these days but we're open to reasonable offers.

You will need plenty of room as it's around 8 feet tall...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 11 May, 2018, 07:21:43 am
David's Jupiter from last night.
(https://scontent.flhr2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/32188472_1131610223645268_2730911975423868928_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&oh=d95be67b63db679bf576863a503865f5&oe=5B567651)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 11 May, 2018, 07:59:29 am
The OT Gallery has various astronomical threads, from aurorae to solar eclipse in America last year...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: PaulR on 11 May, 2018, 07:45:38 pm
I hope to find time this weekend to review the footage I took of the Ganymede transit last weekend.

I am rather hankering after a sizeable newtonian now that I live under reasonably dark skies.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 13 May, 2018, 10:36:58 pm
Apparently it's 'Space Season' on BBC 4.  No idea if that means a week,  a day, or what.
Ooh goody.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 13 May, 2018, 11:11:02 pm
Just watched The Sky At Night. The data coming out of Gaia is stunning!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 14 May, 2018, 12:22:32 pm
David imaged the Whirlpool Galaxy this morning.
(https://scontent.flhr2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/32411166_1133538240119133_2573257839250243584_o.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=AeE2_lmRnoRPFCb6_7BHSZ8ScwfCdxG9ik-PSxS2qXLxQzUsARU4i0lhCBB0QBEKxw_x_DLSmuK9T9TzmZ_JAOj81mSP3DGDBGj8s1Mj3mcF9g&oh=6e700e9bbf3daefb580722591f78f18b&oe=5B5357DB)
 
so we've not had breakfast yet...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: PaulR on 15 May, 2018, 03:03:28 pm
Lovely whirlpool!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 18 May, 2018, 10:29:32 am
David imaged the Whirlpool Galaxy this morning.
(https://scontent.flhr2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/32411166_1133538240119133_2573257839250243584_o.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=AeE2_lmRnoRPFCb6_7BHSZ8ScwfCdxG9ik-PSxS2qXLxQzUsARU4i0lhCBB0QBEKxw_x_DLSmuK9T9TzmZ_JAOj81mSP3DGDBGj8s1Mj3mcF9g&oh=6e700e9bbf3daefb580722591f78f18b&oe=5B5357DB)
 
so we've not had breakfast yet...

David has the means. I therfore declare him Git!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Tim Hall on 22 May, 2018, 10:10:00 pm
I just peered out of my window as I drew the curtains. ISS at mag -3 going overhead.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 23 May, 2018, 07:52:20 am
He'd have needed a Schmidt here last night, a Newtonian would have filled up with rain.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Torslanda on 23 May, 2018, 10:43:39 am
Slightly OT, we're still trying to find a home for my Dad's 6" Gregorian reflector. Admittedly it's more of a display piece these days but we're open to reasonable offers.

You will need plenty of room as it's around 8 feet tall...

Woo and verily hoo! Sold!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 23 May, 2018, 12:59:36 pm
Good price?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 23 May, 2018, 02:45:19 pm
Slightly OT, we're still trying to find a home for my Dad's 6" Gregorian reflector. Admittedly it's more of a display piece these days but we're open to reasonable offers.

You will need plenty of room as it's around 8 feet tall...

Woo and verily hoo! Sold!

Great stuff!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Torslanda on 23 May, 2018, 02:58:01 pm
Good price?

Dunno. It's something else I don't have to worry about . . .
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 28 May, 2018, 01:46:06 am
Jupiter and the moon.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 28 May, 2018, 08:05:54 am
Through cloud here. Would have made a good whodunnit cover.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 03 June, 2018, 04:09:04 pm
Martin's latest Jupiter:

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DexgiGAX0AAt4KL.jpg:large)

(Search did not seem to find this thread. Don't know why...)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 01 July, 2018, 10:50:38 am
Lovely view of the Moon and Mars in conjunction this morning, at <godawful> a.m. when the noise of the wind battering the shutters woke me up.

Can't remember if <godawful> was UTC or local time.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 27 July, 2018, 06:13:08 pm
Bah.   Completely overcast here.  No Luna eclipse for me.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 27 July, 2018, 07:32:52 pm
You just need a good sightline to the horizon in the south-east in two hours time.

You might still get this.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: SoreTween on 27 July, 2018, 09:52:37 pm
Another page in vol 2 of astronomical disappointments in glos.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Efrogwr on 27 July, 2018, 10:41:39 pm
In the last twenty years we've seen threeastronomical events that were forecast to be interesting. It's overcast again this evening; for the first time in weeks!

Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 27 July, 2018, 10:57:23 pm
The 2004 Transit of Venus was started at Audax o'clock.
Our bedroom faces north-east and we had lovely clear skies, getting good images without leaving our boudoir.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Kim on 27 July, 2018, 11:03:10 pm
All cloud here when I looked.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 28 July, 2018, 07:03:07 am
Had a good view of it, although it was just rising out of the murk. Yup, it looked like an eclipse all right.

Fed up with the press & like ignorami using the term "Blood Moon" in hushed tones as if it were something out of the Apocalypse of John the Divine. It's just the Bloody Moon with a bit of grimy shadow on it.

Far more spectacular was the brilliant flare of light that preceded a faint trail with a red dot at the head of it that I saw when I looked north to see if Polaris was out yet. Meteor, or else biggish junk re-entering, probably.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Efrogwr on 28 July, 2018, 11:06:42 am
In the last twenty years we've seen threeastronomical events that were forecast to be interesting. It's overcast again this evening; for the first time in weeks!

Last night, soon after the eclipse was over, the cloud cleared...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 28 July, 2018, 12:17:00 pm
Fed up with the press & like ignorami using the term "Blood Moon" in hushed tones as if it were something out of the Apocalypse of John the Divine. It's just the Bloody Moon with a bit of grimy shadow on it.

My David rants/grumbles about this too!

You are not alone!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 28 July, 2018, 12:50:22 pm
Ah, solace in numbers. Cheers to your David.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Kim on 28 July, 2018, 01:10:52 pm
The way I see it, referring to it as a 'blood moon' is perfectly acceptable iff:

a) You're a member of a society that knows nothing of astronomy or the scientific basis for the phenomenon.
b) You're a character in a vampire story.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 08 August, 2018, 01:21:29 pm
Meteor last night, lovely thick bright trail. About SSE, south of Mars, around 10:45 pm so probably not a Perseid.

 Mrs T42 was jealous.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 08 August, 2018, 08:51:32 pm
Looking forward to the Perseids this weekend.  Moon good. Buggers off early evening.  Fingers crossed for clear skies.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: orienteer on 08 August, 2018, 10:42:17 pm
Anyone else see the Horizon programme about the Juno explorer's expedition to Saturn last night?
Found it quite fascinating, especially the discovery that Saturn's core is rocky with liquid metallic hydrogen surrounding it, due to the immense pressure.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 10 August, 2018, 10:43:26 pm
It's a lovely night so I popped out for a while to see if I could see any meteorites.  Nope nothing after 15 minutes.  I know that the peak is Sat/Sun but I was hoping for something.
Perfect viewing conditions.  No moon, the track of the milky way visible, mars, clearly a disk to the naked eye, glowering in the south east where it has just risen over the Pencader hill.

Hmm.  Nice wine this.

Obv Saturday and Sunday nights will be wet with 10/10 cloud cover.  Bah!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 10 August, 2018, 11:38:40 pm
David's friends have just arrived to look at the skies...
It's clear here right now.

ETA They saw quite a lot and left at 0210.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 11 August, 2018, 07:50:10 am
Broken cloud here, just the odd star. Didn't think it worth getting up early.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 11 August, 2018, 06:57:00 pm

Obv Saturday and Sunday nights will be wet with 10/10 cloud cover.  Bah!

Indeed bah!  :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Efrogwr on 11 August, 2018, 08:49:31 pm

Obv Saturday and Sunday nights will be wet with 10/10 cloud cover.  Bah!

Indeed bah!  :(

It's crap in Snowdonia, too.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 11 August, 2018, 10:21:04 pm
We have cloud. And midge.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Thor on 11 August, 2018, 10:46:02 pm
Anyone else see the Horizon programme about the Juno explorer's expedition to Saturn last night?
Found it quite fascinating, especially the discovery that Saturn's core is rocky with liquid metallic hydrogen surrounding it, due to the immense pressure.

Wasn't that Jupiter?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: orienteer on 12 August, 2018, 08:57:04 am
Yes, Jupiter! I always muddle those!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 12 August, 2018, 09:01:17 am
Was up around 3 am: clear sky but no Perseids. Went back to sleep, woke up when it was light. :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 12 August, 2018, 12:26:41 pm
Perseid maximum is tonight thobut.

Apparently, a small Solar Eclipse was just observable yesterday from Stornoway, 19 years to the day since totality in Cornwall.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 12 August, 2018, 01:31:12 pm
Remarked yesterday to Mrs T42 that it was the anniversary of our eclipse party in 1999.  We were right in the centre of the shadow in 1999. I had a scope set up to project & another with a thick Mylar filter for direct viewing. It was cloudy, but the cloud broke up about half an hour in advance and we saw it all.

Funny: you can be as rational as you like, but a total eclipse is still kinda spooky.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 12 August, 2018, 03:08:11 pm
Yes.  I cycle toured down to South Devon which was within the area of totality.  You're right.  It is spooky.  The speed that the darkness fades in id just so un natural.

Helly, wasn't it the thirteenth?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: BrianI on 12 August, 2018, 03:17:21 pm
Perseid maximum is tonight thobut.
.
Cloudy with a chance of Triffids tomorrow?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 12 August, 2018, 08:11:58 pm
*Sings*

"set the controls for the heart of the sun"
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 13 August, 2018, 08:51:05 am
Yes.  I cycle toured down to South Devon which was within the area of totality.  You're right.  It is spooky.  The speed that the darkness fades in id just so un natural.

Helly, wasn't it the thirteenth?

Nope, it was the 11th.

We saw a few meteors last night a couple of hours after sunset.  Had another gander towards 3 am but Perseus was down the end of a brightly-lit street and looking that way was uncomfortable. Nowt visible. I'm always hoping for something on the Chelyabinsk scale, especially since the neighbours' modern monstrosity has great big plate glass windows.  I should think that Swift-Tuttle's débris has been pretty well swept up by now though.

Mrs T42 saw and heard a big one years ago in Uganda, which her parents poo-pooed until it was in the papers.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 13 August, 2018, 09:14:50 am
I could have seen the 11th one if it hadn’t been cloudy, would also have seen the Perseids, but it has been unremitting cloud for a few days.

In terms of anniversaries, it is nearly a year since this.

(http://www.alfiecat.co.uk/yetacf/DSC_3819%20%281%29.jpg)

 :)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: cycleman on 13 August, 2018, 07:46:29 pm
*Sings*

"set the controls for the heart of the sun"
[/quote
I note that the sun rocket probe has been launched yesterday  so I hope the controls are set right  :D]
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 02 September, 2018, 08:49:07 am
Oh, very yes:

(https://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/eclipse_review.png) (https://xkcd.com/1880/)

Needs a dot for "blood moon".
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 21 September, 2018, 11:46:42 am
I have got me a new camera- Sony a3600 mirrorless. This beauty allows me to utilise the Sony Playmemories mobile app on my phone and iPad. As a result, I can link the device to the camera using the camera generated wi fi hub and veiw the image live. For astro stuff, this makes achieveing sharp focu so much easier.
My first couple of astr efforts are below. Both shot at around 21:15 on 17/09/2018, ISO 1600. The first at 1/1600 sec, the second at 1/320 sec.

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1965/29883257787_109651a4a8_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MwFvqx)DSC00171 (https://flic.kr/p/MwFvqx) by Matt Langridge (https://www.flickr.com/photos/59790646@N05/), on Flickr

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1919/44100200794_66ed5503a6_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2abZ4gy)DSC00173 (https://flic.kr/p/2abZ4gy) by Matt Langridge (https://www.flickr.com/photos/59790646@N05/), on Flickr
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 21 September, 2018, 01:19:27 pm
Very nice.  Makes me want to go out and spend money I haven't got.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 24 September, 2018, 11:15:19 am
Tried the new camera out on the newly driven mount last night going interstellar.

The back story is that I bought a drive kit for the Skywatcher EQ3/2 mount I got with my scope along with a polar alignment scope. Polar alignment (aligning the Right Ascension axis of the scope with the polar axis of Earth) is essential for trail free long exposures. To achieve this, you utilise a polar alignment scope which sits in the axis of the mount. The scope has a reticle which is lined up with Polaris depending on the year etc. Before attemting anything you have to ensure that the polar scope is accurately aligned to the axis of the mount.

Aligning a polar scope to a mount can be akin to herding cats. Idealy done at night and using Polaris as your target you set up and level the mount, with the elevation of the mount consistent with the lattitude of your location (51 and a tad degrees for me) and ensure that the mount is correctly orientated re North. You then put the centre of the reticle on your target and rotate them mount around the RA axis 90 degrees (either way) or 180 degrees depending on your favourite tame experts advice. Look through the polar scope and note the distance and direction that the target has wandered from the reticle centre. Now make adjustments to the 3 grub screws in the polar scope (1.5mm allan key required on my scope) to shift the reticle half way back towards the target. Then using the mount fine adjustment screws, recentre the reticle on the target. Rotate back to start point and repeat until the target stays in the centre at both points. Alignment has been achieved. Bearing in mind that Polaris is quite high in the sky (find the Big Dipper- the two stars that form the 'wall' of the bowl furthes trom the handle form guide stars, a line drawn through these two stars, from bottom of bowl to top, extending about twice the distance between the two stars points almost exactly at Polaris), looking through the polar scope every minute or two for the eons it seems to take is neck breaking. Add in the fact that my polar scope isn't illuminated so red torch use at the objective end was required AND the buggeration factor of very small, dairy product related grub screws at night meant that I was about ready to kill someone by the time I had finish. 3 attempts it took >:( Cat herding? pice of cake compared to that.

Once you have the polar scope aligned you are ready to go. When setting up, you have to do your polar alignment. Not as awkward as polar scope alignment but still a bit of a faff. Deploy mount, level mount and ensure it is North aligned. Grovel on knees and check position of Polaris in relation to polar scope reticle. Adjust and repeat until aligned.

Next you mount your scope to the tripod and then notice that the cloud has crept in and covered your intended target :facepalm:

Retire to the domicile and watch an episode of The West Wing and sup an hot coffee.

The cloud did eventually clear so out I went and set the camera and iPad up. My first target was M31 The Andromeda Galaxy-

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1929/44832181272_3fcc74a775_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2biEDyC)DSC00176 (https://flic.kr/p/2biEDyC) by Matt Langridge (https://www.flickr.com/photos/59790646@N05/), on Flickr
ISO1600 single frme 30 seconds

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1940/44832179452_db69b42d34_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2biED2f)DSC00179 (https://flic.kr/p/2biED2f) by Matt Langridge (https://www.flickr.com/photos/59790646@N05/), on Flickr
ISO1600 single frame 15 seconds

M31 is the nearest galaxy to ours and is about 2.5 million light years away (thiugh it is getting closer).

I next had a look at Mizar. Mizar is the centre star in the handle of The Big Dipper. The reason I went there is because it is a double star in that it has a companion star (Alcore). Some folk can split the two with the naked eye. Mine are shot enough that I need binoculars to do so. Mizar is about 88 light years away.

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1903/44882855141_8dfb7d03bb_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2bo9n92)DSC00182 (https://flic.kr/p/2bo9n92) by Matt Langridge (https://www.flickr.com/photos/59790646@N05/), on Flickr
ISO1600 single frame 5 second exposure.
Mizar is the brighter star, Alcore the slightly fainter.

Last nights images suggest my scope alignment isn't perfect as some trailing is evident though not too bad. As I get used to the basic operating methods I will progress on to multi frame capture and stacking.


Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: PaulR on 24 September, 2018, 05:04:32 pm
Aha, I have just spent a day off sick answering emails from colleagues and surfing cycling and astronomy websites.  And saw your shots of M31 etc on SGL.  Nice work.  I have recently moved to a darkish village but have not really scratched the surface of what a DSLR can reveal in the night sky
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 24 September, 2018, 06:55:25 pm
i got kicked out of SGL for Bad Behaviour and can't go back.
(Not that I've tried recently.)
David's out too cos we use the same phone & internets.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: PaulR on 24 September, 2018, 07:13:50 pm
SGL is a funny place but v informative (by which I suppose I mean it gives me lots of ideas about how I could buy more astronomy clobber that I don't really need).
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 25 September, 2018, 10:05:58 am
I have recently moved to a darkish village but have not really scratched the surface of what a DSLR can reveal in the night sky

The Parisian satellite town where I lived in 1980 had darker sky than the country village I live in these days.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 25 September, 2018, 12:06:50 pm
We had darker skies in Richelieu, where I did a choir school one year, than we'd ever seen in the UK.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: essexian on 25 September, 2018, 12:19:41 pm
That's one of the small number of things I dislike about living here, namely the lack of a dark sky. Indeed, we can normally see stars out one side of the house due to bl**dy "security lights." Why do my neighbours need either to turn these full time all night, or set them up so they turn on whenever you look in their general direction.

If you want a dark sky, we found that the cottage we rented overlooking the sea in the north of Skye (yes, yes) was the best I have ever seen. Indeed, the sky was so clear it was a little overpowering: I guess we can normally see a few hundred stars at most here in the Midlands. Up there, there were thousands and thousands I am sure I read somewhere that there are 6 000 stars visible to the naked eye. Is that right?

The first time I saw the Milky Way was around 1970 from the Scout Camp near Romford.... I bet you can't see it now from there!!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 04 December, 2018, 11:10:47 pm
No images but when I got up thgis morning, the view of the waning crescent moon just to the east of a crescent Venus was beautiful. Thwe conditions were such that I swear I could resolve the Venus crescent with naked eye
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 04 December, 2018, 11:41:10 pm
Yes.  I sleep with my curtains open.  When I first awoke at 6ish, they were shining in on me.  Venus looked fantastic without my glasses on.  An out of focus fiery thing. 
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: andytheflyer on 05 December, 2018, 08:05:17 am
No images but when I got up thgis morning, the view of the waning crescent moon just to the east of a crescent Venus was beautiful. Thwe conditions were such that I swear I could resolve the Venus crescent with naked eye
I'm no astronomer, but I thought that yesterday at dawn the moon and Venus were the clearest that I'd ever seen them. Thanks to the dog needing a walk.

Didn't know Venus had a crescent though - but I suppose any planet will have, so thx for that. 
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Pedal Castro on 05 December, 2018, 01:28:16 pm

Didn't know Venus had a crescent though - but I suppose any planet will have, so thx for that.

Only Venus and Mercury will show crescents to Earth bound observers
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 05 December, 2018, 02:12:42 pm
Venus must be past max. elongation already, and I've only seen it twice this autumn. Saw it this morning, though, beautiful as ever.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 06 December, 2018, 08:00:36 pm
A couple more from the other night-

The Orion Nebula-
(https://i.imgur.com/iPATmGk.jpg)

And Betelgeuse-
(https://i.imgur.com/xtqTs1b.jpg)
This one could go supernova at any time (between now and about 1 million years time). Gonna be a bit of a show when it does!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Pingu on 15 December, 2018, 06:03:12 pm
Jupiter images from Juno https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/juno/images/index.html

(https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_feature/public/thumbnails/image/pia22692.jpg)

(https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_feature/public/thumbnails/image/pia22694.gif)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 15 December, 2018, 11:31:52 pm
Juno is capturing some stunning imagery isn't it?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Peter on 16 December, 2018, 12:14:13 am
Does that top shot of Jupiter remind anyone else of William Blake's artistry?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Pedal Castro on 16 December, 2018, 08:04:48 am
Juno is capturing some stunning imagery isn't it?

It certainly is.

I found a dolphin surfing the waves of Jupiter's belts.

(http://www.nrtoone.com/allowhotlinking/JunoDolphin_crop.jpg)
So long and thanks for all the fish!

Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 16 December, 2018, 01:15:11 pm
:thumbsup:

Looks like it's being pursued by Cthulhu.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 17 December, 2018, 09:24:47 pm
I just love this shot.
https://twitter.com/alynwallace/status/1074727771002294272?s=19
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 17 December, 2018, 10:20:25 pm
I just love this shot.
https://twitter.com/alynwallace/status/1074727771002294272?s=19
I agree basil- a bit special.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Pingu on 02 January, 2019, 11:05:18 pm
Meet Ultima Thule.

(https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/a8ddc22d68fb13491db2d40c16b7d1e032cb91c3/51_0_1984_1192/master/1984.jpg?width=1065&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=2a6250a76fe6b76ad8b8631ba35c73ee) (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2019/jan/02/first-close-ups-of-ultima-thule-reveal-it-resembles-dark-red-snowman)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Mr Larrington on 03 January, 2019, 10:29:01 am
In a recent referendum, Thule has voted to leave Ultima.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 17 January, 2019, 11:53:10 pm
Managed a little while outside under cloud free skies last night- the moon was looking good.

(https://i.imgur.com/oVfsHw7.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/k67KuBL.jpg)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 18 January, 2019, 09:30:23 am
Lovely shots.  Have you had a go at Mars recently? It's pleasing that it's still high in the evenings. I don't think I can remember a year when Mars has been visible for so long.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 18 January, 2019, 10:07:56 am
Thanks T42. Not tried Mars yet. It is on the list but time and weather are the limiting factors at the moment.

The biggest impediment is set up. Deploying a tripod and scope for visual is a relatively quick process but, the set up for imaging can be quite lengthy. Polar alignment can be one of those things that goes like clockwork or takes forever!

Oh for a permanant pier or, best case scenario, a back garden obsy :D
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 18 January, 2019, 01:30:53 pm
Yeah. I was working towards that but never got round to it before a bunch of new houses were built and the new street lights lit up the sky. Nowadays we have a physiotherapy centre next door and at nights it's floodlit to chase away the bogeymen.  >:(  :demon:
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 18 January, 2019, 04:50:12 pm
Back garden observatory complex works well.
Big telescope on brick & concrete pier, shielded by roll-off roof and connected by cables to computers in 'warm room' shed.

Then the mice chew the cables and the climbing cats' claws compromise the roofing felt....
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 13 February, 2019, 10:08:11 am
5 day old moon 10th feb 2019
(https://i.imgur.com/2Gpv0JT.jpg)

The terminator is bisecting (from North to south) Mares Frigoris, Serenatis and Tranquillitatis.
Crater Theophilus is prominant about 1/3rd of the way up the terminator heading North, identifiable by the prominant mountain at its centre.
The prominant crater just North of mid point, with a bright Western rim and dark shadow within is Maskelyne. Move West from here to just within the terminator line and you reach the location where Neil Armstrong took his 'One small step for man....' (50 years ago this July 21st).
Slightly East and North of Maskelyne, a point of uplands/ mountains intrude into mare Tranquillitatis. This is the site of the Apollo 17 landing on 11th december 1972 in the Taurus-Littrow Valley.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 13 February, 2019, 01:00:16 pm
Very nice!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 13 March, 2019, 03:01:54 pm
I are my Asto Societies new Chairman :o
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 13 March, 2019, 03:07:10 pm
Constellations.  ;D
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 13 March, 2019, 05:01:46 pm
Oh you star!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 15 March, 2019, 11:02:51 am
 ;D
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 15 March, 2019, 11:04:32 am
My first attempt at multi pane mosaic images.
4 pane mosaic of the moon taken 18/02/2019. All images used were exposed identically.
This was more about alignment of the panes. Processing out join artifacts etc will come later

(https://i.imgur.com/kojl3Nd.jpg)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Giraffe on 16 March, 2019, 08:49:12 am
That's remarkably good for a camera that's about 1,810 years old!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 17 March, 2019, 09:31:56 am
Doh! Edited ;D
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 11 April, 2019, 09:23:22 am
So THAT is what a Black Hole looks like-

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-47873592

I wonder what Steven Hawking would have thought to that.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Ham on 11 April, 2019, 10:39:54 am
Folks here might enjoy (or, already know) this site https://www.swagastro.com/, eg https://www.swagastro.com/ic434-b33.html
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 12 April, 2019, 10:12:36 am
Thanks Ham- not come accross Sara before now.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 15 May, 2019, 10:37:25 am
A couple of images from daylight yesterday-
Sol, sunspot AR2741 Sony a6300 on my Skywatcher 150P reflector. ISO400 1/400 sec exposure

(https://i.imgur.com/hL3zimh.jpg)

I'm hoping that we have just reached the end of the last 11 year sunspot cycle as this is the first I have seen for a while and others have reported a possible increase in activity.

Daytime moon. 2 pane mosaic, same rig, ISO400 1/125sec.

(https://i.imgur.com/VonU6iX.jpg)

A good daytime moon hangs in the sky like the Death Star doesn't it?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 15 May, 2019, 10:50:33 am
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Kim on 15 May, 2019, 01:02:11 pm
A good daytime moon hangs in the sky like the Death Star doesn't it?

Almost, but not quiet entirely unlike a Death Star.  Time to repost this... http://www.theforce.net/swtc/holocaust.html#orbit
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 12 August, 2019, 05:46:00 pm
The Perseids should peak tonight.   :thumbsup:
Looking at the rain radar, it doesn't look like good viewing conditions here.  :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 12 August, 2019, 09:42:10 pm
Garden lounger chair.
Very large G&T
Pipistrelle bats. Check.
Gibbious moon.
Stars? 4. Bugger.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 13 August, 2019, 08:14:17 am
Lemme guess: Summer Triangle + Arcturus.  Jupiter & Saturn thrown in for Your Viewing Pleasure.

Some years back a rogue physiotherapist built a great white monstrosity next door to us, with security illumination that lights up every time a cat wanders past. Bibi sky.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 13 August, 2019, 09:13:59 am
Not so much light pollution, more cloud cover.
Meteors saw I none.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 13 August, 2019, 11:46:12 am
Lovely clear sky. Decided to set camera up. 20 mins later lovely clouds fill sky.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 13 August, 2019, 09:30:40 pm
Just popped out the back to see if the sky was clear.  The fact that it is pissing down with rain was a clue.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 13 August, 2019, 11:23:39 pm
I got a couple last night- both Perseids. About 25 minutes apart and on opposing sides of the constellation. The first at around 23:30.

2 nights previously I saw a very bright meteor, east to west trajectory, north of casseiopea. One of the brightest I have ever seen. Also about 23:30
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 27 August, 2019, 11:26:04 am
M57 Ring Nebula, Celestron C6 XLT, Skywtacher HEQ5 Pro mount, Sony a6300 prime focus, ISO 3200 15s single frame exposure, no post processing.

The Ring Nebula is a planetary nebula- these are where the star at the centre of the nebula has expelled a shell of ionized gas as it dies down to a whait dwarf. M57 is around 2,280 light years away and is situated in the constlation Lyra, a little south of the star vega-
(https://i.imgur.com/y1JqjTF.jpg)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 21 October, 2019, 06:04:42 pm
A good chance for clear skies tonight for the Orionid meteor shower.
I'll probably get another stiff neck. 
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Ham on 22 October, 2019, 07:50:47 pm
I can't wait to try out my astro mode on my phone. Except, of course I'm in London. Wonder what it's like taking pictures of street lights?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Efrogwr on 22 October, 2019, 08:45:50 pm
I can't wait to try out my astro mode on my phone. Except, of course I'm in London. Wonder what it's like taking pictures of street lights?

Astro mode? Is it built in, or is it an aftermarket app? Ios or Android?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Ham on 22 October, 2019, 09:24:17 pm
built in, it's USP for the new Pixel 4
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Efrogwr on 22 October, 2019, 09:31:45 pm
I'm stuck with an iPhone...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Ham on 22 October, 2019, 09:33:15 pm
<gulp> bugger me it's clever

just pointed the thing out my back door and clicked, handheld, swaying like anything. Second one is more "up" than the first which was just "I can only see one star with my eyes, let's see what happens"

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L87YvNqP1Vc/Xa9nDPmaQkI/AAAAAAADF8g/9K4THk-spyk6tRo99Bip4M8_mxpbZBv2gCKgBGAsYHg/s1600/IMG_20191022_212526.jpg)

and

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X1RR6R7tW4o/Xa9nDOKHO3I/AAAAAAADF8g/cD5sUlhX4L4MRacwE3zGDMUvW-yAQ1NuACKgBGAsYHg/s1600/IMG_20191022_212827.jpg)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Efrogwr on 22 October, 2019, 09:36:24 pm
Yep, that's impressively clever.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 07 November, 2019, 08:01:41 pm
Mercury passes between the sun and the earth on 11 November.   Next time will be November 2032.
Good timing for viewing from UK.  Afternoon and evening.
I will try to project an image in the early evening, weather permitting.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 07 November, 2019, 08:30:08 pm
https://www.rmg.co.uk/discover/explore/when-is-the-next-transit-of-mercury (https://www.rmg.co.uk/discover/explore/when-is-the-next-transit-of-mercury)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 07 November, 2019, 11:21:08 pm
Don't bother. The UK is going to be cloud bound for the transit. I know this because I have taken the day off to observe it...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 11 November, 2019, 12:02:06 pm
Even our online local rag is in on this...
https://www.harrowtimes.co.uk/watfordnews/18024727.watch-mercury-make-rare-transit-sun/?ref=ebln (https://www.harrowtimes.co.uk/watfordnews/18024727.watch-mercury-make-rare-transit-sun/?ref=ebln)

Shame their image has a disproportionate apparent size of Mercury and states Mercury orbits the Sun every 88 years...

It might not be completely overcast here but is rather breezy.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 11 November, 2019, 12:44:37 pm
David managed to image the start, through breaks in the cloud, so he's a happy bunny.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EJF9FEXXsAEjK7f?format=jpg&name=4096x4096)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 11 November, 2019, 01:16:26 pm
:thumbsup: to David.  In our particular branch of Sticksville we've got wall-to-wall cloud and despondency down to zero feet.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 11 November, 2019, 01:31:07 pm
November! No sun, no moon....

Our sky has around 50% cloud, and the clouds are fairly mobile.

David is entertaining another AstroBachelor right now.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 11 November, 2019, 03:24:20 pm
Nice shot.  Not much chance of imaging the sun here.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 11 November, 2019, 04:51:28 pm
I actually saw it yesterday, for about 30 seconds.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 11 November, 2019, 07:41:27 pm
I managed one capture- through a solar continuum filter hence green-
(https://i.imgur.com/qsSTFHy.jpg)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 11 November, 2019, 11:07:19 pm
My image doesn't come anywhere near reflecting the Wowness of viewing the tranist through the eyepiece of my telescope. That little blemish just inside the disc of the sun at about 9 o'clock is a planet. An ickle one but a chuffing planet none the less. Makes yourealise that the sun is a bit big isn't it?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 10 January, 2020, 07:29:32 pm
No lunar eclipse visible this evening.   10/10 cloud cover, as per.   :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Beardy on 10 January, 2020, 07:46:05 pm
Crystal clear here in the Angles but the eclipse wasn’t really discernible.  Just too subtle I guess
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 10 January, 2020, 07:58:32 pm
Beautiful sunny day all day here.  Total cloud cover came with the sunset.   ::-)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 11 January, 2020, 12:20:23 am
Crystal clear here in the Angles but the eclipse wasn’t really discernible.  Just too subtle I guess

It WAS very subtle; just a bit less bright in the bottom right corner and no sharp shadows in the best images I've seen from D's astro pals.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 28 January, 2020, 06:27:26 pm
Did anyone see the crescent moon and Venus this evening?   Beautiful.
May still be visible if you have good sightlines to the west and if you're quick.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: nicknack on 28 January, 2020, 06:39:53 pm
Did anyone see the crescent moon and Venus this evening?   Beautiful.
May still be visible if you have good sightlines to the west and if you're quick.
Thanks. Beautiful!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: cycleman on 28 January, 2020, 07:45:35 pm
Yes  :thumbsup:,nice to have a  clear sky this evening.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Kim on 28 January, 2020, 07:47:26 pm
Did anyone see the crescent moon and Venus this evening?   Beautiful.

I had an excellent view of it from my window as the sky was doing its "now you're indoors I've stopped raining, na na-na nah-nah" thing.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 28 January, 2020, 08:31:32 pm
Did anyone see the crescent moon and Venus this evening?   Beautiful.
May still be visible if you have good sightlines to the west and if you're quick.
Yes beautiful
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Ashaman42 on 29 January, 2020, 06:13:33 am
I did, didn't realise it was Venus but I did see the Moon and a bright dot off to the right. I had intended to look up what the dot was but forgot by the time I was in the house.
Title: R.I.P Heather Couper
Post by: Basil on 19 February, 2020, 07:08:38 pm
https://www.bbc.com/news/amp/entertainment-arts-51562165?__twitter_impression=true
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: pcolbeck on 19 February, 2020, 07:26:28 pm
I didn't realise she was that old (I know its not old these days and I still think I'm 30 not 54).
She was great on TV I much preferred her presenting to her current day equivalent Maggie Aderin-Pocock who I find too gushing and patronising (but maybe that's me probably other people just think she's enthusiastic).
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 20 February, 2020, 10:46:05 pm
hearing she was 70 made me realise I'm older than I feel.
A sad loss.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Pingu on 20 February, 2020, 10:54:14 pm
Aw  :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 21 February, 2020, 10:47:01 am
I'm sorry I missed her - when I was still in the UK it was all Patrick Moore and his 1953 suit. She looks to have been great fun.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 27 February, 2020, 06:47:22 pm
Did anyone see the crescent moon and Venus this evening?   Beautiful.
May still be visible if you have good sightlines to the west and if you're quick.

And again tonight.  Crikey, that was a quick Luna month.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 27 February, 2020, 10:50:25 pm
Did anyone see the crescent moon and Venus this evening?   Beautiful.
May still be visible if you have good sightlines to the west and if you're quick.

And again tonight.  Crikey, that was a quick Luna month.
Very pretty tonight :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 27 February, 2020, 11:23:53 pm
My David posted this on Facebook.
(https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/88183270_1689345977871687_2728256667727691776_o.jpg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=ZG8wslUhaV0AX_Jjrl2&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-2.fna&oh=7abe644e1af46f56b3f1106067c71e83&oe=5EF04EEC)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 28 February, 2020, 09:30:40 am
Good detail on the Moon. I saw them the other evening but by the time I thought of getting out a decent camera the clouds had moved in.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 28 February, 2020, 10:49:34 pm
I like that!
I'm struggling to get a good image of Earthglow at the moment. I shall persevere.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 29 February, 2020, 01:41:34 am
Looks as if tomorrow's public observing in Ruislip is on (given weather forecast at 02.00 - situation might change.)
(https://scontent.flhr4-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/85258994_1658063637666790_6488308301229457408_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&_nc_sid=110474&_nc_ohc=tDlsbMeCmEYAX8mxMbk&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-1.fna&oh=bab7926c15518c7b9167eb0f53ef9808&oe=5EB95CA6)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: PaulR on 28 March, 2020, 09:23:33 pm
Not sure if this really counts as astronomical, but I enjoyed capturing this the other evening
https://photos.app.goo.gl/hJJEWJqwpcxXkuwj9
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 28 March, 2020, 09:35:41 pm
Gosh. Well done.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 28 March, 2020, 10:48:04 pm
Nice one!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 29 March, 2020, 07:43:41 pm
That's great!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Ashaman42 on 31 March, 2020, 09:28:37 pm
Because of warnings from here we went out and watched the ISS pass overhead tonight. It couldn't have been a clearer night for it, a shame about the street lights but otherwise very clear.

Well very clear for my partner. I, on the otherhand, found out that it's not just my new cycling glasses that give a bit of double vision at distance. My new normal glasses do too. I hadn't realised due to only really being at home, at work, or on the train since I got them  :facepalm: Not that I can exactly go back to Specsavers at the moment.

Still I got to see two ISSs pass overhead at least.

And in reality it was just a bright dot moving fast but it was really really cool when you think about the fact there are three (currently) people up there gadding along at over seven and a half kilometres a second.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 31 March, 2020, 11:02:21 pm
Managed to follow it in my binoculars tonight as it passed below the moon. I'm not sure but I think I can resolve a bit of shape.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 22 May, 2020, 04:47:49 pm
Anyone managed to get a shot of or even see the Mercury/Venus conjunction? Not a chance here.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 22 May, 2020, 05:28:00 pm
Partner saw them naked eye and photographed with a telephoto lens from our bedroom.
(https://scontent.flhr2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/98581167_1766422806830670_361577860537778176_o.jpg?_nc_cat=100&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=P_-HiYYeFdsAX-8IFFt&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr2-2.fna&oh=e6e7b14754633b1537b7f84b0168151b&oe=5F57D186)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 22 May, 2020, 06:21:52 pm
One from Facebook today.
(https://scontent.flhr2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/100092932_10158450646114074_9147443427447668736_o.jpg?_nc_cat=103&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=BGfS0W2aCb8AX8jlF5N&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr2-1.fna&oh=b36e796e5f445fc0af501b232abe347f&oe=5EEC5E43)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 11 August, 2020, 08:25:05 pm
Doesn't look like good viewing conditions here for the Perseids tonight or tomorrow.   :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 12 August, 2020, 07:59:21 am
One from Facebook today.
(https://scontent.flhr2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/100092932_10158450646114074_9147443427447668736_o.jpg?_nc_cat=103&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=BGfS0W2aCb8AX8jlF5N&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr2-1.fna&oh=b36e796e5f445fc0af501b232abe347f&oe=5EEC5E43)

"URL signature expired". :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Thor on 12 August, 2020, 10:55:25 am
Doesn't look like good viewing conditions here for the Perseids tonight or tomorrow.   :(

(https://i.ibb.co/qBCTvkR/Disappointids.jpg)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 13 August, 2020, 06:32:38 pm
 ;D
That's very good.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 04 September, 2020, 09:11:17 pm
Jupiter from my back garden with my new camera, Tuesday evening. Best 50% of 2000 frames stacked in AutoStakkert! and tweked a bit with GIMP

(https://i.imgur.com/wIbjkgP.png)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Kim on 21 October, 2020, 09:31:29 pm
NASA are about to make an important scientific announcement about the moon.

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-to-announce-new-science-results-about-moon

I'm betting they've put Cheesoid in charge of infrared spectrosocopy, and will be stepping up the Artemis programme inna drill-baby-drill stylee on the basis of the results.

(Either that or volcanoes.)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Mr Larrington on 21 October, 2020, 09:47:19 pm
It is made of cheese after all?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: spesh on 21 October, 2020, 10:11:53 pm
NASA are about to make an important scientific announcement about the moon.

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-to-announce-new-science-results-about-moon

I'm betting they've put Cheesoid in charge of infrared spectrosocopy, and will be stepping up the Artemis programme inna drill-baby-drill stylee on the basis of the results.

(Either that or volcanoes.)

Or a mysterious black monolith...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: andrewc on 21 October, 2020, 10:18:45 pm
There's a slight problem with the nuclear waste dumps.....   Nothing to be alarmed about. 
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: pcolbeck on 21 October, 2020, 10:21:03 pm
Orionids meteor shower is spectacular tonight. Lighting up the clods here in North Yorkshire.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: andrewc on 21 October, 2020, 10:46:45 pm
Orionids meteor shower is spectacular tonight. Lighting up the clods here in North Yorkshire.


Now I know Yorkshiremen have a certain reputation , but there's no need to insult them on the forum  :P
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Mr Larrington on 22 October, 2020, 01:58:12 am
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/8c/1a/63/8c1a63dba21fa8146776dac2901aa146.jpg)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: andrewc on 26 October, 2020, 04:19:37 pm
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2020/oct/26/water-exists-on-the-moon-scientists-confirm


https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-s-sofia-discovers-water-on-sunlit-surface-of-moon


Walking on the moon...
Whitey on the moon...
Water on the moon..
Title: Jupiter and Saturn
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 25 November, 2020, 04:08:44 am
 JUPITER AND SATURN TO LINE UP TO AS ‘DOUBLE PLANET’ FOR THE FIRST SINCE MIDDLE AGES
 (https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/jupiter-saturn-planet-sky-night-b1761241.html)

Quote
When the sun sets on 21 December – the winter solstice – people looking up to the sky will see Jupiter and Saturn closer than anyone alive has ever seen them before.

In a Restaurant at the End of The Universe kind of way:
Quote
For anyone who misses the astronomical pairing, there will be another chance to see the sight in 2080. 
Title: Re: Jupiter and Saturn
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 November, 2020, 04:32:05 am
(Sings)
Oberon, Miranda and Titania
Neptune, Titan, stars can frighten
Etc.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 21 December, 2020, 04:58:30 pm
Bugger.  Completely overcast conditions and raining.
There'll be no viewing the Saturn /Jupiter star of Bethlehem tonight.   :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 21 December, 2020, 05:19:11 pm
There is RAIN and Fog.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 21 December, 2020, 06:06:52 pm
Same murk here!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Efrogwr on 21 December, 2020, 06:38:00 pm
I had a preview last night. The sky was too bright to see Saturn without binoculars. Tonight is as for everyone else.  Bugger!

Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Lightning Phil on 21 December, 2020, 06:39:37 pm
Saw them last night, as above needed monocular to see Saturn as well. Knew it’d be a write off tonight based on forecast.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 21 December, 2020, 11:07:56 pm
My friend in Whitstable had clear skies and excellent naked-eye views on Saturday or Sunday night. (Can't remember which!)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: fuzzy on 21 December, 2020, 11:27:40 pm
I caught a naked eye glimpse throught the gap in the buildings and hedges last night. Tonight? I guess I'll be looking for the Lowell Observatory live feed in a bit.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: perpetual dan on 22 December, 2020, 09:03:58 am
I took binoculars to the local park on Sunday, between putting the spuds and the veg on. It was nice to see, even though mine are low power. Even better, by being in public I got to talk to some strangers for the first time in ages.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 25 February, 2021, 08:48:41 pm
Very pleased to see on this evening's dog empty that Orion is now so much higher in the sky. Spring is on its way.  :thumbsup:

Maybe should have been in the other thread.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: andrewc on 28 February, 2021, 11:52:06 pm
Reports of a meteor.   https://twitter.com/search?q=meteor&src=typed_query (https://twitter.com/search?q=meteor&src=typed_query)


https://twitter.com/hashtag/fireball?src=hashtag_click


Keep any eye out for mobile plants or tripedal Martians.....
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: andytheflyer on 01 March, 2021, 08:50:55 am
Very pleased to see on this evening's dog empty that Orion is now so much higher in the sky. Spring is on its way.  :thumbsup:

Maybe should have been in the other thread.
Ah!  Didn't know that - I noticed Orion last night for what seems the first time in ages - didn't know we couldn't see it in winter.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 01 March, 2021, 09:19:33 am
Very pleased to see on this evening's dog empty that Orion is now so much higher in the sky. Spring is on its way.  :thumbsup:

Maybe should have been in the other thread.
Ah!  Didn't know that - I noticed Orion last night for what seems the first time in ages - didn't know we couldn't see it in winter.

No. It's the other way around. It's a winter constellation.  As the year progresses it makes its way west until it is no longer visible in the night sky.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 01 March, 2021, 01:27:09 pm
I like seeing Mars every evening when the dogs are doing their evening thing. It's not going to be visible that much longer now.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: andytheflyer on 01 March, 2021, 01:30:28 pm
Very pleased to see on this evening's dog empty that Orion is now so much higher in the sky. Spring is on its way.  :thumbsup:

Maybe should have been in the other thread.
Ah!  Didn't know that - I noticed Orion last night for what seems the first time in ages - didn't know we couldn't see it in winter.

No. It's the other way around. It's a winter constellation.  As the year progresses it makes its way west until it is no longer visible in the night sky.
Thx.  Now I'm confused as my increasing useless memory was telling me I see Orion to the SW in the summer nights.  I must be a half a year out.  Typical geologist is my excuse - I spend most of my time looking down and not up.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 10 June, 2021, 12:19:02 pm
Total thick cloud cover this morning.  No view of the partial eclipse for me. Bummer.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Pingu on 10 June, 2021, 12:20:46 pm
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=60957.msg2631201#msg2631201
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 10 June, 2021, 01:03:51 pm
Nice. Well done Mr. P
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 12 August, 2021, 03:43:12 pm
Ooh, the Perseids.  I forgot about the Perseids.  Currently 3/10 cloud cover in Llandysul,  so fingers crossed.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Wobbly John on 12 August, 2021, 04:13:00 pm
Spotted half a dozen Persoids last week, including a spectacular one wiggling across the sky like a cheap firework rocket. Only saw 2 in about 15 minutes last night.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 12 August, 2021, 04:21:21 pm
Ooh, the Perseids.  I forgot about the Perseids.  Currently 3/10 cloud cover in Llandysul,  so fingers crossed.

Now 5/10 and building.  :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 12 August, 2021, 07:56:11 pm
Ooh, the Perseids.  I forgot about the Perseids.  Currently 3/10 cloud cover in Llandysul,  so fingers crossed.

Now 5/10 and building.  :(

And now, of course, 10/10.  :
Every bloody year.  >:(

Oh, and now it's raining.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Pingu on 12 August, 2021, 08:59:24 pm
Sky's quite clear here at the mo', but we're in the middle of the city  :-\
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Bledlow on 12 August, 2021, 11:17:37 pm
In town, so quite a lot of light, but Mrs B & I just saw a few from the back garden.

Not like when I was 14, though. Rural southern France, camping outside an old farmhouse taken over by PGL Adventure Holidays, flat on our backs looking up at the dark sky saying "There's one!", "Another!", & so on.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Clare on 12 August, 2021, 11:25:52 pm
Saw two in rapid succession, then one really bright one with a long white tail that was split in two. The meteor seemed to skim the atmosphere and bounce away.

We both said 'Oooooooooooooooooooooooooh'.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 12 August, 2021, 11:36:39 pm
Partner is at Piggott's Farm watching the sky with others from the West of London Astronomical Society.

This was the home of Eric Gill, who led an 'interesting' life...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 12 August, 2021, 11:38:50 pm
Tonite it is total clod.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Giraffe on 13 August, 2021, 08:56:25 am
Partner is at Piggott's Farm watching the sky with others from the West of London Astronomical Society.

This was the home of Eric Gill, who led an 'interesting' life...
Now the place is sans Gill.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jurek on 13 August, 2021, 09:01:55 am
Partner is at Piggott's Farm watching the sky with others from the West of London Astronomical Society.

This was the home of Eric Gill, who led an 'interesting' life...
Now the place is sans Gill.
Eric Gill studied at the same college as I did.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 13 August, 2022, 08:36:22 pm
Bugger!  Watching milky high cloud developing overhead.  I forgot about the Perseids last night when it was probably perfectly clear.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 August, 2022, 11:02:00 pm
Partner is at Piggott's Farm watching the sky with others from the West of London Astronomical Society.

This was the home of Eric Gill, who led an 'interesting' life...
Now the place is sans Gill.

 ;D

Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: spesh on 13 August, 2022, 11:24:28 pm
Bugger!  Watching milky high cloud developing overhead.  I forgot about the Perseids last night when it was probably perfectly clear.

https://theoatmeal.com/comics/celestial_events  ;)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 25 October, 2022, 09:19:24 am
Looking very on and off for cloud cover this morning.
I hope I'll get a chance to see the partial eclipse later.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 25 October, 2022, 09:41:40 am
Looking very on and off for cloud cover this morning.
I hope I'll get a chance to see the partial eclipse later.

We have a pretty good chance of seeing it here. Should be 20% coverage.  Might dig out the Mylar filter and try a shot. Or not.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 25 October, 2022, 10:10:25 am
Fog and cloud here.

So probably won't see anything!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 25 October, 2022, 10:36:59 am
10/10 cloud cover and raining. Poo!
 :(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 25 October, 2022, 10:49:39 am
Hoorah. Just caught a glimpse.  It's actually better through a thin layer of cloud, as you can look directly at it.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jurek on 25 October, 2022, 10:54:51 am
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52452832551_312d25ed11_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nV5tFV) (https://flic.kr/p/2nV5tFV)  (https://www.flickr.com/photos/jurekb/)

Pictures from the screen to follow.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jurek on 25 October, 2022, 11:05:04 am
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52452865321_822dc4bfde_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nV5DqV) (https://flic.kr/p/2nV5DqV)  (https://www.flickr.com/photos/jurekb/)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 25 October, 2022, 11:24:42 am
 :D
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 25 October, 2022, 11:48:01 am
D's outside.
Clearish here with some thin cloud.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Pingu on 25 October, 2022, 11:53:47 am
Managed to see it via a pin hole in an envelope projected onto the back door.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 25 October, 2022, 11:55:00 am
 :thumbsup:

Here's mine: Nikon D600 w. 300mm lens + Mylar filter:

(https://pbase.com/image/173096172.jpg)

There are a couple of small sunspots, one near 2 o'clock and another near the lunar shadow around 9 o'clock.

Divvery: I have a lovely sharp Tamron 70-300mm and instead I used the so-so 28-300 that was on the camera when I got it out. Still, it didn't do too badly.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jurek on 25 October, 2022, 05:02:05 pm
Check this out:
https://twitter.com/astro_graph/status/1584868001878114305
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 25 October, 2022, 05:31:31 pm
Wow.  Is that real?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 25 October, 2022, 06:13:38 pm
It's amazing, it even managed to fly between the sun and the moon!!!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jurek on 25 October, 2022, 06:37:34 pm
It's amazing, it even managed to fly between the sun and the moon!!!
Not so.
Unless I'm mistaken, on the first slo-mo take, you can see the surface of the moon behind the vapour trails.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 25 October, 2022, 07:19:34 pm
 ;D
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jurek on 25 October, 2022, 07:32:29 pm
;D
Your just a cynic. Aren't you?  :P
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Wowbagger on 25 October, 2022, 07:50:29 pm
(https://scontent.flhr12-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/311653730_3271812439804609_4091250929643485503_n.jpg?stp=cp6_dst-jpg_p843x403&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=8bfeb9&_nc_ohc=jcdkjBUnTFEAX-fjt6I&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr12-1.fna&oh=00_AT84cn6Bu_fzdKh0j9v6BqZX2jxvLexzunR2BOHkG8DO4w&oe=635DEC1E)

This morning, on Southend Sea Front, there was enough thin cloud for me to be able to see the eclipse with the naked eye. I took the above picture with my phone. It would appear that there is an artefact of the sun, mirror-imaged, just to the right of the lamp post, rather below the main glow.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 25 October, 2022, 11:37:27 pm
D's eclipse shot got contrailed too…
(https://scontent.flhr4-4.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/311735959_2531433440329599_6959454681164955450_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s640x640&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=uTZMCoFOSbAAX_KhUgb&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-4.fna&oh=00_AT9_F-3Im57yiBdCykje2AORYhhwh8b8uEwFB2XAr3DBEQ&oe=635C8C96)
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 October, 2022, 01:37:30 am
aLiEnS!,,,,! cHeMtRaIlS!!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jurek on 26 October, 2022, 07:34:07 am
What I'm trying to get my head around is that the image on my screen shows the 'bite' to have been taken out of the sun in the bottom right quarter. Everyone else's shows the bite in top left - I understand this is because my device is effectively a pin-hole camera, which inverts the image. Everyone else's image is from a conventional camera. How come Wowbagger's  image shows the flare of the sun with the bite taken out of the bottom right quarter?
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Vernon on 26 October, 2022, 08:30:29 am
What I'm trying to get my head around is that the image on my screen shows the 'bite' to have been taken out of the sun in the bottom right quarter. Everyone else's shows the bite in top left - I understand this is because my device is effectively a pin-hole camera, which inverts the image. Everyone else's image is from a conventional camera. How come Wowbagger's  image shows the flare of the sun with the bite taken out of the bottom right quarter?
The Sun image you can see in Wow's photo is a reflection rather than the Sun. The Sun itself is saturating the sensor in the white section above the crescent image, and the fraction of a percent of light reflected off the lens or sensor chip is  bright enough to cause this reversed image. It's a similar cause a a double rainbow, due to a secondary reflection.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 26 October, 2022, 09:28:36 am
Also, the smaller images are of a sun a lot further away.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 26 October, 2022, 10:37:49 am
D's eclipse shot got contrailed too…
(https://scontent.flhr4-4.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/311735959_2531433440329599_6959454681164955450_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s640x640&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=uTZMCoFOSbAAX_KhUgb&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-4.fna&oh=00_AT9_F-3Im57yiBdCykje2AORYhhwh8b8uEwFB2XAr3DBEQ&oe=635C8C96)

Much better lens than mine & bigger image at focal plane.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Peter on 26 October, 2022, 10:59:43 am
"Hip, Hip, Hip, Hip, Hooray!"
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Wowbagger on 26 October, 2022, 11:01:55 am
What I'm trying to get my head around is that the image on my screen shows the 'bite' to have been taken out of the sun in the bottom right quarter. Everyone else's shows the bite in top left - I understand this is because my device is effectively a pin-hole camera, which inverts the image. Everyone else's image is from a conventional camera. How come Wowbagger's  image shows the flare of the sun with the bite taken out of the bottom right quarter?

It has been suggested that the odd artefact in my photo might not be of the sun at all, but coincidentally is the same shape. I've no idea what a phone camera does to images.

I used to sleep in a pinhole camera. My bedroom, in my second year at college, had curtains which didn't quite meet at the top. On bright sunny mornings, an inverted image of the houses opposite appeared on the wall above my bed.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jurek on 26 October, 2022, 11:17:21 am
What I'm trying to get my head around is that the image on my screen shows the 'bite' to have been taken out of the sun in the bottom right quarter. Everyone else's shows the bite in top left - I understand this is because my device is effectively a pin-hole camera, which inverts the image. Everyone else's image is from a conventional camera. How come Wowbagger's  image shows the flare of the sun with the bite taken out of the bottom right quarter?

It has been suggested that the odd artefact in my photo might not be of the sun at all, but coincidentally is the same shape. I've no idea what a phone camera does to images.

I used to sleep in a pinhole camera. My bedroom, in my second year at college, had curtains which didn't quite meet at the top. On bright sunny mornings, an inverted image of the houses opposite appeared on the wall above my bed.

My bold.
I have exactly the same in my bedroom - but only during BST.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 26 October, 2022, 12:23:40 pm
D's eclipse shot got contrailed too…
(https://scontent.flhr4-4.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/311735959_2531433440329599_6959454681164955450_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s640x640&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=uTZMCoFOSbAAX_KhUgb&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-4.fna&oh=00_AT9_F-3Im57yiBdCykje2AORYhhwh8b8uEwFB2XAr3DBEQ&oe=635C8C96)
Much better lens than mine & bigger image at focal plane.

Well, it WAS a camera body stuck onto a small telescope...
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 26 October, 2022, 02:44:17 pm
D's eclipse shot got contrailed too…
(https://scontent.flhr4-4.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/311735959_2531433440329599_6959454681164955450_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s640x640&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=uTZMCoFOSbAAX_KhUgb&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-4.fna&oh=00_AT9_F-3Im57yiBdCykje2AORYhhwh8b8uEwFB2XAr3DBEQ&oe=635C8C96)
Much better lens than mine & bigger image at focal plane.

Well, it WAS a camera body stuck onto a small telescope...

Yeah, straight-through refractor, I noticed. My best scope for optical quality is an ETX 90 with a powered altaz mount but prime focus adaptors foul the mount at az > 20° or so. Kinda limited.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Kim on 26 October, 2022, 07:43:36 pm
I used to sleep in a pinhole camera. My bedroom, in my second year at college, had curtains which didn't quite meet at the top. On bright sunny mornings, an inverted image of the houses opposite appeared on the wall above my bed.

My bold.
I have exactly the same in my bedroom - but only during BST.

When we lived in the People's Republic we used to be able to watch our neighbour loading and unloading his van on our bedroom ceiling.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 27 October, 2022, 08:17:29 am
Got the ETX 90 again last night but got a motor unit failure message on the control paddle when it tried to slew. I bought it in the 90's and haven't used it for years so I suppose it can be forgiven.  Not really much point in trying to get it fixed with the light pollution around here: the phyzzy/dentistry joint next door has security lights on a motion sensor and the bloke across the road has the same, and his illuminate our garden every time a car goes by.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Peter on 24 February, 2023, 07:36:00 pm
Bigging up Wales's dark skies by the BBC:-

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64756972 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64756972)

Also stunningly visible (much better than those pics) in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, home of permanent daylight.  Thank God the BBC didn't trail this, or it would have clouded over!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 24 February, 2023, 07:43:09 pm
Ah, right. :-\
I wondered why it keeps getting dark

Seems Wales has night as well.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Peter on 24 February, 2023, 07:45:31 pm
But only if the BBC has a reporter there!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 24 March, 2023, 10:29:17 am
Sloppy article about 2023 DZ2:  https://www.theguardian.com/science/2023/mar/24/city-killer-asteroid-to-pass-harmlessly-between-earth-and-moon

More to the point, it's only going to miss Earth by 19 hours.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2023_DZ2

Quote
[a] If 2023 DZ2 had been arriving approximately 19 hours later it would have impacted into Earth as that is where the two orbits intersect.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 12 August, 2023, 11:06:14 pm
Perseids.
Total cloud cover.
Again.

As you were.

 :( >:(
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Jaded on 12 August, 2023, 11:24:49 pm
Here too. Bah!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 August, 2023, 12:04:00 am
Sloppy article about 2023 DZ2:  https://www.theguardian.com/science/2023/mar/24/city-killer-asteroid-to-pass-harmlessly-between-earth-and-moon

More to the point, it's only going to miss Earth by 19 hours.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2023_DZ2

Quote
[a] If 2023 DZ2 had been arriving approximately 19 hours later it would have impacted into Earth as that is where the two orbits intersect.

You've just reminded of the utterly bonkers size comparisons that the Jerusalem Post coughs up every time a near-Earth object hoves into view.  This one was said to be the size of “22 tuna fish”; others include:
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 13 August, 2023, 10:18:38 am
Reminiscent of Rabbi Blue and his parable about goats, chickens etc.  "Get some walruses".


Perseids: high haze here w. the odd darker cloud.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Peter on 13 August, 2023, 11:14:48 am

Perseids: high haze here w. the odd darker cloud.

Hi Haze, no silver lining here in Mancunia, too.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 August, 2023, 12:18:58 pm

Perseids: high haze here w. the odd darker cloud.

Hi Haze, no silver lining here in Mancunia, too.

[“Get out!” – Ed.]
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: spesh on 13 August, 2023, 12:44:58 pm
Perseids.
Total cloud cover.
Again.

As you were.

 :( >:(

ObligOatmeal: https://s3.amazonaws.com/theoatmeal-img/comics/celestial_events/celestial_events.png  :demon:
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 13 August, 2023, 12:55:20 pm
 ;D  ;D
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: hellymedic on 13 August, 2023, 06:03:48 pm

Perseids: high haze here w. the odd darker cloud.

Hi Haze, no silver lining here in Mancunia, too.

[“Get out!” – Ed.]

Everywhere and nowhere, baby!
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: T42 on 23 August, 2023, 01:35:44 pm
Changdrayaan 3 made it!  Bloody marvellous.

Modi rabbiting on about how it's for all peoples of the earth.  Wonder if he includes Muslims in that.
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 14 December, 2023, 10:43:07 pm
Light cloud tonight with plenty of clear breaks.  I spent 15 minutes out in the garden and was rewarded with sight of a several of Geminids tonight.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A Random Thread For Astronomical Stuff.
Post by: Basil on 05 March, 2024, 09:19:04 pm
Wow. Just back from dog in park walk.
Wow. Stars, stars, stars. Billions of them.

Have you seen the stars tonight?
Would you like to go up on A-deck and look at them with me?
Have you seen the stars tonight?
Would you like to go up for a stroll and keep me company?